The world cultural institution: European Council on Tourism and Trade, had started to officially register the countries and cities candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for countries and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for cities desirous to become international hubs for tourism.

The ECTT Awards for tourism and cultural achievements are the annual celebration that awards the best in tourism industry crowning, since 2006, the countries and nations excellence and investment in the tourism sector, putting under the world limelight the exceptional leadership and nation prowess, in the framework of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD, and the category of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and marking out outstanding cultural and investment tourism projects.

The ceremony started with the unveiling of the logo for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2017

Starting their creation from 2006, the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) Awards have recognised nations and people’s strides for their innovative and determined tourism initiatives.

On the same occasion, the unveiling of the logo for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM IN 2017 had taken place.

For the tenth consecutive time, the ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards will recognize the tourism potentials of the most attractive tourist and cultural destinations.

Diplomatic corps accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade and foreign delegations attending the opening ceremony for 2017 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS.

President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea participated in the opening ceremony for World Tourism Awards for 2017.

President Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade President Office staff had given the starting signal for what is internationally known as Nobel`s or Oscar`s of tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competitions.

This event has taken place on January 2, 2016 and has marked the opening of the international contests for WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for 2017.

Held under the patronage of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, the World Best Tourist Destination – Tourism Festival is an element of novelty in the world cultural space, consisting in a series of projects meant to promote the cultural diversity of the countries that outlined candidatures to World Best Tourist Destination, under the “Open Your Culture to The World” slogan.

Arab Embassies are highlighting the Coffee, tea and sweets as national treasures and arguments for World Best Tourism Destination designation.

The inauguration ceremony, started with the message of the European Council on Tourism and Trade President, who highlighted the potential of the world culture, and the contribution of such public and cultural diplomacy initiatives to the dialogue between cultures, between generations, between the diplomatic community and civil society.

Food Festival for 2017 Tourism “Oscar`s” presented national dishes from 56 countries candidates for World Tourism Awards and succeeded to capture the imaginations of the world public.

The celebration continued with a presentation of national dishes and culinary traditions and hospitality and folk costumes, presenting the participants with a unique opportunity to taste and enjoy the world food as part of tourism development of today.

Many ambassadors present on the venue to uphold their countries candidature`s emphasize the importance of food as a bridge toward friendship and understanding.

There is only a culture of understanding and friendship around food, stated president Anton Caragea opening the food section of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS.

Asian food from China to Vietnam and India on display for European Council on Tourism and Trade festivities

World Best Tourism Destination -Tourism Festival will continue until 5 January 2017, having a diverse agenda and over 50 embassies, cultural institutes and international organizations as participants, representing 6 continent`s.

The New York Times in a central editorial make`s the same point: What Impact Will Trump Have on Tourism?

The analysis result sounds cautious: new immigration procedures that make the customs and border process harder, the scrutiny of particular groups of people); and the perception of how welcoming and safe (or not) the United States is are growing to weigh heavily on the future of US tourism.

Donald Trump promises that he will put his managerial skills in the benefit of world tourism.

Others cited in the article are right a way tenebrous: attendees at the World Travel Market London conference were coming up and “offering condolences.”( Gary Leff).

The list of worries on tourism faith under Donald Trump is long and wide spanning from: banning of minority groups, hostile policies towards Middle Eastern travellers, Cuban policy, US dollar strength in ratings, air fares tariffs, immigration policies and what role the Trump hotels will have in the great scheme of things.

Tourism is all about optimism and confidence and the new US President Donald Trump Jr. promised in his inaugural address that: hee will make US a World Best Tourist Destination country and a great country for all !

On 22 June 2016 the world tourism community had celebrated the world level achievers in tourism and culture in a glittering display hosted by the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.

On this felicitous momentum for world tourism the Kingdom of Cambodia was officially crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and universally acclaimed as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016.

The ceremony reunited the alph and omega of world tourism and offered renewed expectation for the tourism development in the next years.

The event had concluded the official visit of World Tourism Institutes delegations in the country.

The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, had led an official delegation representing the World Tourism Institutes: European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade to a tour of Kingdom of Cambodia cultural and historical patrimony, in order to evaluate the country destiny as a tourism power house in Indochina region.

The representatives of World Tourism Institution – European Council on Tourism and Trade started their familiarization trip in the country, in the famous province of Siem Reap, home of famous Angkor temples and palaces.

The head of European Council on Tourism and Ttrade, President Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea and his delegates receiving a replica of Jayavarman the VII-Emperor of Angkor statue from Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.

The visit of European high level delegates to Siem Reap was accompanied by the diligent staff of Minister of Tourism of Cambodia and the Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.

A dense and perfectly carved cultural program presented the main attractions of the regions like: the world-famous architectural treasures of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the incredible magnificent construction of Bayon temple, the rich views of the red temple of Banteay Srei and the cosmic images of a vegetation invaded temple at Ta Prohm.

President Dr. Anton Caragea outlines the simple truth: Siem Reap is the house of all who love culture!

During the celebratory feast, an ample array of music, cultural tradition and costumes from the region was displayed for the high guests.

The next leg of the journey in the magic Kingdom of Cambodia was the familiarization trip around Phnom Penh.

The Cambodia`s capital meet the delegates with a perfect sky line, with the astonishing atmosphere of a bustling Southern Asian city and with incredible aroma, mixing monsoon air with mango and jasmine flowers, a secret aroma that only Phnom Penh has the mastery off.

The visit included a tour of the Wat Phnom, a discovery trip to the hustle and bustle of Central Market, a must stop at Phsar Tuol Tom Pong better known as Russian Market and a bird’s eye view of the awe-inspiring city monuments like: Independence Monument, the new governmental quarter of Peace Palace etc.

Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. A stand-alone point in the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to Cambodia`s Capital.

Phnom Penh also presented to the enchanted visitors, the gem of the city: the Royal Palace, a long lay over where the European delegates took the time to admire the Audience room, the palace grounds, the palace gardens, the ballet and concert hall, the administration rooms, the museum of royal regalia and paid respects to the funerary stupa`s of former Kings of Cambodia.

A moment of silence was observed for the stupa of the latest king of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanuk, the king who was in the same time: cineaste, prime minister, party leader, king, prince, television and show man and has put his imprint on Cambodia`s XX century story.

The former capital of XVII to XIX century Cambodia, the city of Udong, has also received the world tourism high delegates, who took time to explore the Buddha Temple, the stupa`s of King Monivong and the ensemble of temples and Buddhist learning institutes on the ground and admired the ample view from Udong mountain.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates also attended a host of important meeting with the government staff, with an ample dialogue at Minister of Tourism of Cambodia together with H.E. Minister Dr. Thong Khon.

An ample program of exchanges and continuous support was established with specialists from European Council on Tourism and Trade offering expertise for a development master plan, for an eco-system protection area law and to establish a tourism institute and tourism training facilities on the Kingdom in order to meet the ever-increasing needs of tourism and hospitality expertise for the tourism industry of the Kingdom.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, in his capacity of World Ambassador for Natural Protected Areas was also requested to assist the Kingdom in drafting a natural areas and natural parks conservation law at international standards.

The meeting, with the able and competent personal of Minister of Tourism was especially a pleasurable one.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade is congratulating Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia for long-standing efforts in promoting the country tourism potential.

The most important political moment, in European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, was the meeting of the delegates headed by H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea with H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo – Dr. HUN SEN.

During the leaders conversation, the long history of Cambodia renaissance in XXI century, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN was warmly evoked.

The official acceptance allocution was delivered, on behalf of people of Cambodia by H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN.

The first part of ceremonies concluded with the official world recognition of Dr. HUN SEN, for his life work for the people of Cambodia and for international community as a WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT and the official handover of the ACADEMICIAN status regalia to Samdech HUN SEN by the Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

The second part of the ceremonies dedicated to enfeoffment of Cambodia as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016, took place in the presence of the Royal Government of Cambodia, on 22 June 2016 and offered a magical display of the kingdom bounty of cultural and artistic treasures.

President Dr. Anton Caragea remarked in his speech that: In our decision to crown the diamond of Asia: Cambodia as World Best Tourist Destination, we did not forget for a moment that we are not encouraging people to go in strange and un-familiar place.

No, we are just telling them to discover a people, world-renowned for his hospitality, familiarity and openness to strangers: the Khmer people!

They will make you feel that you are rediscovering your home, that you are finding long-lost friends and families, that you are visiting you abode-Cambodia.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates together with Cambodia`s Minister of Tourism team on the stage of WORLD BEST TOURISM AWARDS ceremony.

The visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates offered, to the Kingdom of Cambodia, a perfect occasion to display to the world community the cultural values, the historical patrimony, the traditions and costumes of the Khmer people, placing the country among the nation’s most endowed with a perfect touristic and human potential that must be the base for a future development of Cambodia: The KINGDOM OF WONDERS – WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2016.

Apsara dance for Cambodia-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016

(Phnom Penh-22 June 2016)

Cambodia-World Favorite Cultural Destination 2016

ROYAL CAMBODIAN BALET enthralled viewers attending WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARDS for 2016.

ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea on the platform of Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination with Royal Opera from Phnom Penh

President Dr. Anton Caragea and Minister Thong Khon are offering congratulations to the outstanding performers on WORLD TOURISM AWARDS show.

You have to know that: the world’s favourite museum isn’t the Louvre. Or the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art or London Museum.

According to world tourism institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade, the highest rated museum is the Addis Ababa Ethiopian National Museum, home to the world oldest hominids Lucy and Selam, universally acclaimed as grandfathers of humanity and garnering the world most impressive collection of African eastern orthodox icons.

After crunching the numbers in the algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews for museums worldwide Ethiopian National Museum ranked as the most respected in cultural community.

On the arguments that put the Museum on the right track in the cultural world where the refurbishing of a new wing destined to conserve their countries priceless artifacts and cultural patrimony.

The Ethiopia National Museum made it on the list of WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM on the account of garnering the most relevant artefacts of the incredible history of Ethiopia.

The Museum is having in his exhibitions an outstanding treasure of crowns and objects pertaining to the long list of emperors of Ethiopia, coronation artefacts, imperial insignia and memorabilia.

Selam-the body of the second most old hominide male.

The museum has also prided himself with impressive collections of weaponry, agricultural and everyday life objects from all the national groups and minorities from the territory of today Ethiopia, this makes it one of the largest ethnographic collection in the world and spawning for two millennia.

Of course, the crowning jewels of the permanent exhibitions at the Ethiopian National Museum are the outstandingly preserved bodies of Lucy and Salem (the oldest human remains in the world).

National Museum of Ethiopia: a most stop for every world tourist.

If Ethiopia is proudly named the “cradle of the civilisation” and “the place where it all begins” than a visit to the WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM-the place where the forefathers of humanity are placed is a must for any human being.

The month of July 2015 had entered in the annals of Ethiopian history, as a fast period of the recent times.

At the beginning of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade announced that had selected Ethiopia as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2015, the world highest tourism recognition, and between 9 to 15 July an European delegation lead by ECTT President-Anton Caragea toured Ethiopia, fallowed, quickly after, by the arrival of US President Barack Obama for a three day visit (27 to 29 July 2015) in Addis Ababa. This chain of connected events, succeeded in putting the country on the limelight of international trade and tourism, and in the forefront of international diplomacy.

We present to you the chronic of the two visits that marked Ethiopia`s place in recent African history.

On the landmark occasion, of the universal proclamation of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, a top ranking delegation from European Council on Tourism and Trade was invited for a discovery tour of Ethiopia, the receiver of this year most influential tourism designation.

We are WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION is the hymn of Ethiopia ! A perfect song for a perfect destination!

Ethiopia tourism is having a perfect future ! with the hand shake between Prime Minister of Ethiopia-Hailemariam Desalegn and ECTT President-Professor dr. Anton Caragea.

The inclusive dialogue, concentrated on promoting bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation, supporting business people and firms from both regions in cooperating and promoting the exchange of techniques, skills and economic goods.

United States President Barack Obama at the Gala Dinner in Addis Ababa

United States President Barack Obama hold meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister-Hailemariam Desalegn, Ethiopian Minister of Culture and Tourism-Amin Abdulkadir and Ethiopian President and was treated with an official dinner by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

Gala dinner for European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) President and his high ranking delegation. (from right to left): Minister of Culture and Tourism – Amin Abdulkadir, H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia-Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Creating a network of Ambassadors for Tourism and Culture, promoting tourism and the image of Ethiopia, where also tabled, based on other successful examples of actions of tourism promotion carved by European Council on Tourism and Trade.

On July 10, 2015 European Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had presented the World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 insignia to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Academician Hailemariam Desalegn.

European Tourism Academy Director- Academician Mircea Constantinescu, announced also that after receiving the letter destined to World Leaders of Tourism-Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn will represent Ethiopia, as the newest honorary members of European Tourism Academy.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy is presenting the Honorary Academician Title to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Hailemariam Desalegn.

The ceremony for World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 included also folk dances, Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony and academic presentations, supported by leading figures of Ethiopian cultural establishment.

H.E. Prime Minister and Academician Hailemariam Desalegn and European Council on Tourism and Trade President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea in the center of Ethiopian government and European Council on Tourism and Trade visiting delegation.

In the mean time President Barack Obama schedule contained a visit to African union headquarter and a meeting with African Union chairwoman and a visit on the streets of Addis Ababa and a tour of the Faffa Food factory in Ethiopia`s capital and a tour of the National Palace where WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ceremony for Ethiopia was held.

No visit in Ethiopia is complete without paying a visit to Lucy-the grandmother of humanity: President Barack Obama on the first photo and President Dr. Anton Caragea on the latter photo.

The ceremony for World Best Tourist Destination in 2015 was live broadcasted and viewed by more than 200 millions viewers and will continued to be presented across Europe for the next year.

Axum Cathedral: the place of coronation for Emperors of Ethiopia. The last emperor to be crowned here was Haile Selassie I

From 10th July, the European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his delegation embarked in a cultural and tourism program visiting Axum-the first capital of Christian Africa and the centre of a world power in 100 to 400 BC that controlled trade across the Read Sea.

Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade looking over Axum-the first capital of Ethiopian empire (300 a.Chr.)

In Axum, the delegation visit the royal tombs, the Church of the Arch of Covenant, the Saint Mary Imperial Basilica, where the emperors of Ethiopia were crowned.

Specially for European delegates, were opened the gates of the imperial museum, containing the priceless treasures of ten Ethiopian emperors from garments, to crown adorned with jewels and the robes used for imperial investiture.

From Axum, the old imperial city, the delegation led by President Anton Caragea has being directed to Gondar, the capital of Ethiopia from XVII century to XIX century.

Here they have a chance to admire the fiery Amharic dances, in a wonderful welcoming ceremony, offered by the local authorities, enjoyed the fabulous gondarine cuisine at famous Four sisters’ restaurant and toured the imperial city.

European Tourism delegation is touring the outstandingly preserved Imperial compound of Gondar- Ethiopian empire capital from 17 to 19 century. Behind is the the world famous Fasil Ghibli-Palace of Emperor Fasilides.

Gondar is also world renamed for his architecture and for housing almost ten emperors, in a period of glory for Abyssinia, as Ethiopia was known in that time.

Garnering Portuguese influence, with Indian and English architectural designs, Gondar is nicknamed as African Camelot for his strange, but perfect architecture.

Welcoming in Lalibela with flowers and the beautiful children of Ethiopia: Anton Caragea- European Tourism President and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates were received with a religious ceremony in Lalibela, the holiest Christian city in Africa and the second Jerusalem, as in worldly known.

More than 5000 pilgrims, priests and deacons, welcomed President Dr. Anton Caragea and offered to him and his delegation, special ceremonial robes, to mark their entrance in the holy city.

On this occasion, President Anton Caragea held his gratitude speech known as: To The People of Lalibela, a discourse that quickly captured the imagination of the inhabitants of Lalibela.

An impressive tour of six of the eleven rock hewn churches was conducted, including the famous grave of Saint Lalibela, the church of Medhane Alem (Our Saviour) and Holy Cross Church.

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!-President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

In the final leg of the trip, European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his party were treated with a wonderful welcoming to the bustling and sunny south of Ethiopia and with his famous Lake District city of Hawassa.

The delegates were welcomed to music and a fire display by the head of Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State of Ethiopia and enjoyed a tour of Lake Hawassa, a discovery of the city landmarks and a special night show that touched their hearts.

A special surprised was offered by HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir, who arranged for ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea delegation a special discovery tour of Harar-the fourth most holy Islamic site.

The delegates were welcomed with a coffee ceremony and a tour of famous city enclosure, known as Jugal, and a visit to famous French poet Arthur Rimbaud house in Harar.

The visit, to extraordinary city of Harar, was the perfect gift for our delegates, appreciated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The European delegation official visit to Ethiopia is a sign of the country inclusive development, political, clout and prominence in Africa and a mark of the country taking the rightful place that is deserved amidst the most cultural and historical developed country in the world, concluded his remarks, President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

Photo-Journal of EUROPEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE TO ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

For new links related to European delegation visit to Ethiopia we recommend you this:

The award of World’s Best Tourist Destination will significantly assist in branding destination Trinidad and Tobago globally. We must change the perception of our country in the overseas markets. We must celebrate our country and work hard to sell our country abroad. It is anticipated that this award will open us to untapped European markets that are perhaps weary of the traditional leisure destinations and desire a more exciting vacation experience.

Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

Date: Wednesday October 19, 2011

Venue: Regency Hall- Hyatt Regency Trinidad

Time: 12.30pm

I am indeed truly humbled and deeply honoured to be standing here today to accept, on behalf of the People of Trinidad and Tobago, the World’s Best Tourism Destination Award for 2012 from the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade. A non-governmental organisation, this body has a wide ranging membership of tourism representatives within the European Union.

We were also declared the World’s Favourite Cultural Destination in 2012 by the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

It is my understanding that this award was unanimously given to Trinidad and Tobago primarily for our history of impressive cultural festivals, environmental conservation and biodiversity protection amongst other factors.

It is not an award that is traditionally given to well-established tourism destinations but it is the highest honour awarded to non-European Union countries that have embraced sustainable tourism as a tool for cultural and social development and that respect and preserve their cultural and natural heritage.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade for having us join other distinguished winners of this award such as the United Arab Emirates, Syria and South Koreea.

But moreover, I thank the Council for recognising what most of us fail to acknowledge and value. And this is … Trinidad and Tobago is brim-full with tourism potential.

We are not the traditional sun, sea and surf destination. What differentiates us from the rest of our Caribbean neighbours is our diverse and rich natural, cultural and built heritage.

This People’s Partnership Government is seriously committed and dedicated to the development of the tourism industry in Trinidad and Tobago. Tourism is an incredibly important pillar in our national economic diversification effort.

We are not paying “lip service” to the industry as some may have done in the past. For too long tourism has been looked down on as a second class service sector.

We recognise that tourism is a business and fiercely competitive. Tourism requires skills, talent, enterprise and more importantly the support of government.

The award of World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2012 is important for several reasons.

Firstly, it facilitates the formation of closer linkages with Europe for tourism, trade and investment possibilities. The European continent, as in its colonial past, is a formidable trading partner especially with the fall of communism and the rise of new economic powers.

Europe is, and will certainly continue to be, a cornerstone for our international business.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The economic and social advancement of this beautiful twin island Republic of ours depends to a large extent on how well we develop and harness our resources. And one such untapped resource is that of tourism.

The award of World’s Best Tourist Destination will significantly assist in branding destination Trinidad and Tobago globally. We must change the perception of our country in the overseas markets. We must celebrate our country and work hard to sell our country abroad.

It is anticipated that this award will open us to untapped European markets that are perhaps weary of the traditional leisure destinations and desire a more exciting vacation experience.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

An important opportunity that this award presents is a platform to advance the commitments of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

As many of you may or may not be aware, in 2008 Trinidad and Tobago, along with its neighbours in the rest of the region, embarked upon a reciprocal trade agreement with one of our largest trading partners – the European Union (EU). The signing of the EPA signalled a shift in our trade and economic development.

We are now required to open our markets to Eastern Union manufacturers and service providers; but the EPA also provides market access for our country’s export of services to the European Union.

The Economic Partnership Agreement also speaks to specific disciplines on tourism services because of its importance to the social and economic development of the European Union and the Caribbean. These rules are complemented by a commitment to legally binding open market conditions for each other. For instance, the Europe Union has made commitments for travel agencies, tour operators, tourist guides services.

Trinidad and Tobago, on the other hand, have made commitments in relation to hotels and restaurants, marina services and spa services.

The EPA also includes measures that would make it easier for European Union investors to invest in the Trinidad and Tobago. This award, then, will provide a platform to attract increased investment and to promote growth and development in the tourism sector. The Economic Partnership Agreement is, therefore, rendered more relevant, more strategic and more focused on deliverables.

The World’s Best Tourism Destination award will, moreover, engender a measure of national pride amongst our citizenry and raise the level of public confidence in Trinidad and Tobago as a tourist destination.

We should be proud of our country and its tourism potential. We have so much to be proud of, so much to share with each other, and so much to show off to the rest of the world. Let us not doubt or question our intrinsic value.

In closing, ladies and gentlemen, I must take a moment to publicly acknowledge the hard work and sacrifices of our tourism community … the stakeholders in our midst. The last few years have been quite challenging for all in the tourism industry.

But rest assured that the tourism industry will get the backing it needs.

But we cannot do it alone. We have all to work together. The private sector in the lead but with government acting as a facilitator; supporting every step of the way.

I want to urge you to continue working with commitment, energy and enthusiasm for the betterment of the tourism industry.

On 9th of October 2011 in a public séance of the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade gathering, representatives of tourism organizations from EU members country it was debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2012.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy, had presented a report on the last year situation of the Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION that was dedicated to United Arab Emirates and it was used accordingly with rules and regulations and have being proving highly efficient in attracting new tourists and investor attentions as United Arab Emirates was the ONLY country in the region that registered an increase in number of visitors despite tensions in the region.

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2012 professor dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) presented the report titled : TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO : A SUCCESS STORY IN TOURISM proposing TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012.

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012to TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the report outlined:

Keeping alive spiritual traditions , integrating tourist and visitors in the atmosphere of the islands , offering possibility of an enriching cultural experience are achievements that transform Trinidad and Tobago in a spiritual destination of first hand.

– Promoting Trinidad and Tobago environmental protection, especially East Coast natural patrimony of wetlands, beaches and ecological and geographical biodiversity that make Trinidad and Tobago unique in the region. Supporting a new concept of tourism friendly to nature, with low nature impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

– Offering to tourists not only cultural experience or relaxation opportunities but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to observed in Tobago the impressive Forest Reserve are model achievements in ecological tourism that must be world appreciated.

– The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Trinidad and Tobago, the transformation of Port of Spain in an historical center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture of Trinidad and Tobago and Caribbean heritage.

For all this reasons European Union Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 TITLE TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO and to declare TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATIONS in 2012.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO for a delegation of European high ranking official of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Port of Spain, in person, to His Excellency Minister of Tourism DR. RUPERT GRIFFITH.

Awarding the highest tourism distinction of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, the invitation for an working visit of high ranking members of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade in TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO are estimated by European tourism experts as a good example of close tourism relations and mutual appreciation between European Union and Trinidad and Tobago, said at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

Breaking News

On 15 July 2016 H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has received his official nomination as GLOBAL AMBASSADOR OF TOURISM in addition to the 2014 appointment as GOODWILL AMBASSADOR FOR WORLD PROTECTED AREAS AND NATURAL PARKS
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The Kingdom of Cambodia had received the official visit of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea high-ranking delegation in a joint effort to boost the friendship and dialogue on international stage.

The visit was inscribed in the bilateral decision to uphold the rapid development of the cultural, trade, economic and political ties.
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Between 22 May and 29 May 2015, H.E.Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has lead an official Monitoring Mission for Kazakhstan Early Presidential Elections
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Between 28 May and 7 June 2014 H.E.Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has lead an official European delegation to Republic of Zimbabwe and had assisted to World Best Tourist Destination Ward Ceremony for 2014.
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was congratulated for his instrumental role in promoting Zimbabwe candidature for hosting World Best Tourist Destination for 2014.

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Between 25 November to 2 December 2013 H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was invited for an official working visit to United Arab Emirates on the occasion of the 42 anniversary of UAE National Day.
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was congratulated for his instrumental role in promoting Dubai candidature for World Expo 2020.
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Between 30 October to 4 November 2013 His Excellency Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has being invited by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan to attend Baku International Humanitarian Forum 2013

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EUROPEAN TOURISM AWARDS are the special prizes carved by European tourism industry representatives in recognition of the countries and tourism agents that are promoting the ideal of free, ethical and ecological oriented tourism in the world.

EUROPEAN UNION COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE
EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE is the EU organization responsabile for promoting overseas destinations for EU tourists and promoting investment in European Union and outside EU

PANCIU HOUSE
PANCIU HOUSE is the official diplomatic partner for Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation for 2013/2014. PANCIU HOUSE is producing silent and sparkling wines of irreproachable qualities, highly recommended for quality events.

ROMANIAN DIPLOMATIC BULLETIN
Romanian Diplomatic Bulletin is a trimestrial publication reflecting the diplomatic activity of Romania. Romanian diplomatic Bulletin is published by Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation

STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM
STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM is offering to his clients the necessary ingredients for a healthy life: products without chemicals, additives. The STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM products can be easily ordered, quickly and cheep and they will bring health and nature dir

WILD TIME
WILD TIME is the official partner of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation for 2012-2013. WILD TIME is the main organizer for thematic tourism based on preservation of national beauties and natural protected areas.

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE
WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE is one of the highest honor in tourism and cultural tourism awarded to special cities that are complying with UNESCO and European Union Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) principles on cultural tourism and historic preservation o

WORLD TOURISM NEWS
WORLD TOURISM NEWS is a site dedicated to rapidly and promptly inform tourist, stakeholders in touristic industry and all the people that love to travel about the latest development in world tourism.

President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea will open in the luxurious setting offered by Myanmar`s new capital Nay Pyi Taw the ceremonies for WORLD TOURISM CONFERENCE 2019.The WORLD TOURISM CONFERENCE 2019 opening will be officiated by Myanmar`s Vice-President Academician U Henry Van Thio, State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President Dr. Anton Caragea and Min […]

2019 had come with a novelty for diplomatic corps friends of The Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation (IRICE) who got a double invitation to the DISCOVER ROMANIA PROGRAMME, first time with the summer 2019 trip centered around VRANCEA country and PANCIU Domains and now with a second autumn invite for a trip to Danube Delta. The DISCO […]

On July 12, 2019 THE DOMENIILEPANCIU owner and president Mr. Daniel Guzu was decorated as the CREATOR OF 2019 DIPLOMTIC WINE OF ROMANIA.The news comes in the wake of eight months of successes when the DOMENIILE PANCIU wines obtained powerful recognitions during Brussels Wine Competition snatching the top prizes against more than 9000 competitors worldwide.Th […]

Vrancea County will be at the center, for the first time ever, of THE DISCOVER ROMANIA 2019 summer trip of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation (IRICE).DISCOVER ROMANIA is a programme destined to acquaint diplomats and international friends of Romania with the country historical patrimony and leisure opportunities and destinations. […]

World Elections Monitors Organization-WEMO invites members of European Parliaments, from all over Europe to apply as Observers for our upcoming Election Observation Mission to the European Parliament elections. It is expected that 500 members of European parliaments will take place in the largest diplomatic exercise ever governed by the international electi […]

According to the instructions of World Elections Monitors Organization for the organization of monitoring mission to the European Parliament elections, republished and with subsequent amendments and supplements, the World Elections Monitors Organization has presented to EU media a series of administrative–organizational tasks in the context of the preparatio […]

President of European Council on International Relations Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was the first world leader to offer his congratulations to H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia after the landslide victory that confirmed him to retain premiership for another five years. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea to Prime Minister Academician Hu […]

Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed on Thursday raised Professor Anton Caragea, President of the European Council of International Relations, to the rank of Commander in the National Order of 27 June. The decoration was destined to mark the nation`s gratitude for the global exertions of President Dr. Anton Caragea in supporting the principles of: indepe […]

August 15 - Cambodian People's Party, ruling party of Cambodia led by Prime Minister Hun Sen, triumphed overwhelmingly in late general election 2018 held on 29 July 2018, taking all the 125 seats in the National Assembly, National Election Committee announced Wednesday. In the official results of July's elections, the NEC said the CPP won 4,889,113 […]